It’s a relief somehow.
She reaches Harlan, who looks every bit as stunned as her.
Tingling draws my attention to the crowd, and I catch Clay watching me.
His gaze warms me.
He’s gorgeous in a dark suit, his tattoos invisible except for that trail inching up his neck.I don’t know when he got here, but I’m glad he did.I offer a tiny smile, and he returns it.
The officiant starts the wedding, and I focus on that.Not the dreams that seeing Clay in a church has suddenly sent spiraling through my mind.
When they exchange vows, I allow myself a moment to daydream.
"Nova, you’re my forever.
I’ll put you first.
Love you and cherish you.
I’ll be here when you’re at your best and worst."
I want to believe there’s a chance for Clay and me.Not some wild adventure, but a chance for a real relationship and future.
Brooke slips me a tissue, and that’s when I realize my eyes are damp.
The vows conclude, and Harlan and Mari kiss to deafening cheers.They sign the register with Chloe and Harlan’s best man, and we cluster around for pictures at the altar.
Once everything is signed, the happy couple rises and prepares for the recessional.Mari’s eyes meet mine, and I can tell she’s thrilled, but there’s a fleeting sadness.
The song Mom used to sing isn’t playing during this special moment.
I cross to Mari and hug her, and she hugs me back before pulling away to take Harlan’s arm.
Before they can descend the steps from the altar, a choir stands at the back and starts to sing.
My sister freezes as the words to "Home” stream out in a dozen voices.
Mari gasps, pressing her arm holding her bouquet to her face.
I swallow hard.Clay meets my eyes.
By the second verse, Mari and Harlan descend the steps.She’s smiling and crying, her lips trembling as she leans on her new husband.
Clay gives me that nod.
That "secret smile" nod.
That “I did the only thing in the world that could have made this day better” nod.
My heart starts up, and I don’t know how long it had been stopped for.
The photographer comes and sweeps us off immediately after the ceremony.I manage to sneak out my phone while we’re on our way to where we’ll shoot pictures.
Grumpy Baller: You look beautiful.
The message comes through in between poses.
Nova: You don’t look so bad yourself.If you’re lucky, I’ll save you a dance.
